Maloney, Gibson views differ on same-sex marriage

As the Supreme Court hears arguments this week on two cases dealing with the recognition of same-sex marriage, two local congressmen have divergent positions on the controversial issue.

James Nani

As the Supreme Court hears arguments this week on two cases dealing with the recognition of same-sex marriage, two local congressmen have divergent positions on the controversial issue.

Rep. Sean Patrick Maloney, D-Cold Spring, said the issue is an essential matter of equality. Maloney is openly gay and has been in a relationship with his partner, Randy Florke, for more than 20 years. They are raising three children together.

"Everyone deserves a family that is equal under the law," Maloney said.

Maloney said the issues being addressed by the U.S. Supreme Court aren't just a matter of marrying someone of the same sex but a matter of discrimination.

"If they discriminate against my family, even as a member of Congress, it means they can discriminate against lots of people and that's wrong," Maloney said.

Congressman Chris Gibson, R-Kinderhook, declined to be interviewed, citing his schedule was too busy Tuesday with constituent meetings to address the issue. He was first asked to be interviewed Monday afternoon.

"I was hoping someone would cancel and we could fit something in, but I think we're going to have to pass today unfortunately. Will catch up with you on the next story," said Gibson's spokeswoman Stephanie Valle in an email.

In a televised debate between Gibson and Democratic challenger Julian Schreibman last October, Gibson said he supported the Defense of Marriage Act and that gay marriage is a question that should be "answered by religious institutions." He said he believed everyone should be entitled to equal rights under the law, but under the banner of civil unions.

Maloney said even though he has the right to get married to his partner in New York, federal recognition is an important step. How the Supreme Court rules on the Defense of Marriage Act is something Maloney said he and Florke will be watching closely.